Plan mortar ingredients for reliable masonry work. Compare lime, cement, and sand shares across batches. See clear results, downloads, formulas, examples, and visual charts.
Use a preset or enter a custom ratio. Results appear above this form after submission.
These sample values use common default assumptions for dry factor, wastage, densities, and bag size. Adjust your site values when estimating.
| Example Mix | Ratio | Wet Volume | Adjusted Dry Volume | Cement Bags | Lime | Sand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Brickwork | 1:1:6 | 0.50 m³ | 0.698 m³ | 2.51 bags | 48.88 kg | 837.90 kg |
| Higher Strength Work | 1:0.5:4.5 | 0.75 m³ | 1.047 m³ | 5.03 bags | 48.88 kg | 1,256.85 kg |
| Soft Masonry Repairs | 1:2:9 | 1.00 m³ | 1.397 m³ | 3.35 bags | 130.34 kg | 1,675.80 kg |
| Dense Structural Use | 1:0.25:3 | 0.40 m³ | 0.559 m³ | 4.96 bags | 24.08 kg | 825.75 kg |
1. Wet mortar volume
Wet Volume = Direct Input or Wet Volume = Masonry Area × Mortar Rate
2. Base dry volume
Base Dry Volume = Wet Volume × Wet to Dry Factor
3. Adjusted dry volume
Adjusted Dry Volume = Base Dry Volume × (1 + Wastage % ÷ 100)
4. Component volume by ratio
Component Volume = Adjusted Dry Volume × Component Part ÷ Total Parts
5. Material weight
Weight = Component Volume × Material Density
6. Cement bags
Cement Bags = Cement Weight ÷ Bag Size
7. Water estimate
Water Liters = Adjusted Dry Volume × Water Estimate per Dry m³
The ratio shows the relative parts of cement, lime, and sand in a mortar mix. A 1:1:6 mix means one part cement, one part lime, and six parts sand by volume.
Lime improves workability, water retention, bond quality, and flexibility. It can also help reduce cracking and make the mortar easier to spread during masonry work.
Mortar ingredients are commonly estimated from dry material volume, not wet placed volume. The factor converts finished mortar quantity into the larger dry batch volume needed for mixing.
Yes, but the mortar consumption rate and chosen ratio should match the masonry type, unit size, joint thickness, and local construction practice or project specification.
No. Material density can vary by product, moisture condition, grading, and supplier. Replace the defaults with measured or specified values for better quantity estimates.
No. Water demand changes with sand moisture, lime type, temperature, and workability needs. Treat the water result as a starting estimate, then adjust during trial mixing.
Wastage accounts for handling loss, spillage, leftover mortar, uneven joints, and site inefficiencies. Adding a reasonable allowance helps avoid material shortages during work.
No. It is a planning tool. Always follow project specifications, manufacturer guidance, lab-tested mix requirements, and local code or consultant recommendations before construction.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.